Venomous Keeping Debate V1.0

[New_BP_Guy]

In response to megascops-osio's post, I dont see why anyone would want a snake that can grow so big (i.e. Reticulated python, Anaconda, etc.). I think that any constrictor that is 8' or under is manageable by an average sized adult male. I dont think someone should own a snake that can kill an elephant with one bite, let a lone the keeper. In the same show I saw they were also talking about how even the most experienced hot keepers get bit; but because they are trained they dont die because they get to the hospital in time...

[VoodooChile]

Getting to the hospital in time really doesn't have a lot to do with the keeper's survival. Most hospitals only stock native snake a/v's and don't have the best "up to date" stock and information. Crofab's not going to help you with a Gaboon Viper envenomation.
Many doctors are not skilled in treating native snake envenomations, much less exotics.

The real life savers are:
*written protocols including A/V unit contact numbers, and experienced envenomation professionals contact numbers
*Access to proper antivenin, info on WHERE to get the proper a/v, and what type of a/v, and how to administer the a/v as well as medical symptom information
*their OWN knowledge of the species, envenomation symptoms, and treatment,
*their network of knowledgable spokespeople to escort them to the hospital and advocate for them when necessary

Let me see if I can find a link to protocols I patterned mine from and I'll post it, although I'm sure BW's are MUCH better, and I'd love to have a copy of his. *shameless HINT*

[VoodooChile]

Crotalus Envenomation Protocol (US & CA) Dr. Davidson

*NOTE: I plugged in all my info after copying to wordpad and there was one part I omitted, and that was the presence of a pressure bandage, because of the specific species of Crotalus I would be working with, the venom is hemotoxic and the presence of a pressure bandage is not advised. If the venom had neurotoxic properties, I would have left it in there.. I also plugged in phone numbers to every "Jeff, Chuck & Ernie" (LOL) I know, as well as Tucson's Poison Control, and Dr. Ray Hunter's contact info. I also have the phone numbers of a few local keepers with knowledge of envenomation, and on the cover of my protocol page the numbers are listed there as well.
(the fun part is I dont even HAVE any venomous at this time, but its all there ready to go)

No. 1 on that contact list is Miami Dade A/V unit
No.2 is Tuscon, and the following are all individuals I have been fortunate enough to learn from.
The hospital closest to me stocks Crofab, which is what I would require for the snakes I would be working with.